A new Polar Logistics Vessel being built for Terre Australes et Antarctiques Françaises (TAAF) and the French Polar Institute (IPEV), and which will be operated by the French Navy, is scheduled to be delivered in the first half of 2017.

The 72-metre polar logistics and patrol icebreaker vessel will carry out its first supply mission to the Dumont d’Urville station in Antarctica in winter 2018.

The ship is to be powered by Wärtsilä propulsion solutions. The full scope of supply comprises four in-line Wärtsilä 20 main engines. The Wärtsilä NOR (NOx Reducer) systems will enable the ship to comply with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Tier III emission regulations.

The ship will have accommodation for 60 persons, a cargo capacity of 1200 metric tons, and is fitted with a helideck large enough to accommodate two helicopters. The Wärtsilä equipment is planned for delivery in mid-2016.